The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has been advised to ensure its corruption investigations and prosecutions are driven by credible evidence capable of withstanding judicial scrutiny rather than media narratives or public opinion.
A public affairs analyst, Dr. Ephraim Attah, gave the advice in Abuja in news conference while reacting to reports that former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, was acquitted of six bribery charges by a United Kingdom court.
Attah said the development underscores the need for anti-corruption agencies to conduct thorough investigations before filing criminal charges, stressing that allegations alone should never be treated as proof of guilt.
According to him, the fight against corruption remains necessary, but it must always be anchored on facts, due process and the rule of law.
He maintained that media narratives cannot replace credible evidence before a competent court and urged the EFCC to strengthen its investigative processes to ensure prosecutions are based on verifiable facts.
The analyst said the outcome of the UK proceedings should serve as a reminder that every corruption case must be supported by sufficient evidence capable of securing convictions in court.
Attah also expressed concern over the reputational damage suffered by public officials who are linked to corruption allegations before legal proceedings are concluded.
He cited former Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Group Executive Director (Finance and Accounts), Bernard Otti, saying individuals associated with investigations often continue to face public criticism regardless of the eventual outcome of court cases.
According to him, every allegation should be subjected to due process, warning against convicting individuals in the court of public opinion.
He clarified that his position was not intended to weaken the anti-corruption campaign but to advocate stronger investigations that uphold fairness, professionalism and justice.
Speaking on Nigeria’s economic reforms, Attah said the country should preserve institutional knowledge by engaging experienced professionals in strategic sectors of the economy.
He noted that former NNPC executive Bernard Otti possesses decades of experience in public financial management, including budgeting, revenue reconciliation, audit compliance, financial reporting and internal control systems.
According to him, such expertise could support the Federal Government’s ongoing reforms aimed at improving transparency, strengthening public institutions, increasing revenue generation and enhancing fiscal accountability.
Attah added that Nigeria should establish structured platforms such as advisory councils and reform committees to harness the experience of retired technocrats, stressing that successful economic reforms require not only sound policies but also experienced professionals with the capacity to implement and sustain them.
